About Dr. Jay Forrest Expertise I can answer any question dealing with mysticism, such as questions concerning the awakening call, the purgative way, the illuminative way, the unitive way, spiritual experiences, spiritual direction, spiritual disciplines, prayer, ecstasy, the rule of life, internal monasticism, asceticism, mystical theology, devotional helps, chanting, meditation, contemplation, hesychasm, kabbalah, sufi, tao, zen, theosophy, and more.
Experience
Dr. Jay Forrest is an ardent student of mysticism in all the major religions of the world (Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam). Jay was a Pentecostal/Charismatic minister for over 20 years, pastoring churches in Wisconsin, Missouri, Tennessee, Arizona, and New Mexico. He is the author over over 150 articles and poems and several books. He holds a doctorate in ministry from Trinity Institute.
Question Hello, I just wanted to know more about mysticism. Where does God and Jesus fir in this religion?
Answer Hi Sharron,
Mysticism is not a religion, it is an aspect of religion, like theology. Let me explain. Theology deals with the intellectual aspect of a religion. Mysticism deals with the experiential aspect of a religion. Mysticism can be defined as the art of union and communion with God.
Many religions claim that they bring one into union with God, and therefore have a mystical aspect to them. So there is Buddhist mysticism, Islamic mysticism, Native American mysticism, etc. I am only an expert on Christian mysticism and do not pass judgment on other religions. I will leave that to God.
In Christianity, mysticism refers to the experience of God's presence through Christ. As Christians, we believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:1). Therefore union and communion with God the Father is granted through a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. "Truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ" (1 John 1:3). Simply stated, mysticism is the fellowship we have with God.
